Sudur Paschim Royals take on Chitwan Tigers in the second game of the day. The Royals, alongside Janakpur Bolts, are the standout teams of the tournament, boasting three wins from as many matches. They will aim to further solidify their top position, while the Tigers will be eager to bounce back after a heartbreaking final-over defeat to Karnali Yaks.
The Chitwan Tigers’ opening pair has yet to deliver, leaving the middle order to shoulder most of the scoring. Ravi Bopara has been a standout performer, displaying his class in the middle order, while Sohail Tanvir has effectively led their bowling attack. The duo of Tanvir and Dhakal will once again be pivotal to Chitwan’s chances in this crucial match.
For the Royals, Saif Zaib’s brilliant 90 off 61 in the last match marked his first significant contribution at the top of the order, adding another positive to their dominant campaign. However, like Shubh Kansakar, Naresh Budhayer has yet to bat, bowl, or take a catch in the tournament, while Aarif Sheikh has yet to register a double-digit score. The Royals will want these players to gain some form as the competition progresses.
This game also marked the first time the Royals conceded over 100 runs in a match, having previously bowled out opponents for 94 and 92 in their first two games. Their bowling unit faced a minor test against Lumbini Lions but still secured a convincing 45-run victory. Sticking with their winning combination seems the likely choice for this match.
With contrasting priorities—Chitwan seeking redemption and the Royals eyeing domination—this encounter promises to be an exciting contest.
Probable XI (Sudur Paschim Royals)
Saif Zaib
Binod Bhandari (WK)
Brandon McMullen
Dipendra Singh Airee (c)
Rohan Mustafa
Naresh Budhayer
Ishan Pandey
Md Aarif Sheikh
Abinash Bohara
Scott Kuggeleijn
Naren Saud
Probable XI (Chitwan Rhinos)
Hassan Eisakhil
Deepak Bohara
Luc Benkenstein
Kushal Malla (C)
Ravi Bopara
Santosh Karki
Sharad Vesawkar
Bipin Rawal (Wk)/Ranjit Kumar
Amar Singh Rautela
Rijan Dhakal
Sohail Tanvir
